Analyzes military mission, unit policies, and relationship with population
of local communities to determine requirements for communication. Develops
working relationship with media representatives. Develops and maintains
liaison with representatives of civilian organizations, governmental agencies,
Reserve and active duty units, and other publics. Develops plans and operational
procedures for communication about aircraft and missile accidents, natural
disasters, environmental incidents, and other spot news events concerning
Air Force activities. Plans communication programs to ensure military
and civilian members are informed about current issues and policies of
the local installation, major command, and Headquarters United States
Air Force.

Schedules and assigns personnel to arrange photographic
coverage of events in which Air Force personnel participate. Directs program
activity of Armed Force Radio and Television Service squadron, detachment,
or network to ensure a balanced and suitable program. Directs operation
of base newspapers, unit Commanders Calls, base cable TV access channels,
speaker programs, base tours, public affairs airlift, and orientation
flights. Directs the public affairs aspect of open houses, air shows and
instructs personnel in techniques, philosophy, and importance of public
affairs activities. Directs preparation of graphic and narrative presentations.
Initiates programs to earn community respect and confidence. Supervises
operation of Armed Forces Radio and Television networks and individual
stations for internal information purposes.

Coordinates with appropriate
agencies prior to contacting and releasing information to representatives
of news media on conditions that might result in favorable or unfavorable
public reaction, including releases and public statements involving news
of national interest. Coordinates with other agencies to ensure Air Force
military and civilian personnel are aware of their public affairs obligations
to the American people.

Prepares public affairs annexes to operations
plans. Conducts public affairs briefings for military personnel engaged
in operations involving direct contact with public and representatives
of communications media. Plans, coordinates, and operates activities involving
bands, displays, and exhibits for civilian groups. Prepares or supervises
preparation of information relative to unit participation in military
operations, world events, environmental matters, and national and local
affairs, through news releases, special activities, photographs, radio
and television programs, and other informational material. Assists representatives
of news media in obtaining material about Air Force. Schedules and conducts
news interviews and news media conferences. Reviews materials such as
speeches, news articles, and radio and television shows for security,
invasion of privacy, propriety and suitability, and integration with overall
programs and objectives of the Air Force. Determines appropriate topics
and modes of presentation for radio and television programs, films and
videotapes, and prepares script and scenario outlines.

Develops plans
and formulates policies to ensure public interest, attitudes, and reactions
are determined and considered by personnel managing Air Force activities.
Plans communication strategies to correct misunderstandings, problems,
or friction that may develop.

Specialty Qualifications:

Knowledge.
Knowledge is mandatory of: organization, mission, and operations of the
Air Force; the methods and techniques of disseminating information internally
and publicly, including use of newspaper, magazine, radio, television,
and photographic media; basic communication theory; communication law;
print and broadcast journalism; and basic survey and public opinion research.

Education. For entry into this specialty, undergraduate academic
specialization is desirable in mass or public communication, communicative
arts, journalism, public relations, advertising, or one of the behavioral
sciences (sociology or social psychology).

Training. For award of
AFSC 35P3, completion of the Defense Information School Public Affairs
Officer Course is mandatory.

Experience. For award of AFSC 35P3,
a minimum of 12 months of experience in public affairs assignments is
mandatory. Experience must include preparation or directing preparation
of news releases; daily working relationships with civilian news media
representatives; frequent contact with local government and community
leaders; participation in staff planning, programs, or communication and
dialogue with Air Force members and civilian employees; public speaking;
or military briefings.

Other. For award and retention of AFSC 35P3,
ability to present ideas and facts in written and oral form, clearly and
convincingly, is mandatory.